Liposuction remains among Perth’s most prevalent cosmetic surgeries, offering individuals a solution to resistant fat pockets that do not respond to diet and exercise.Understanding the procedure, from the initial consultation to post-operative care, is essential for those considering this option. As a surgical procedure, liposuction involves removing excess fat from various body parts, such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms, to reshape and contour the body.
A reputable surgeon and clinic are paramount for a successful liposuction experience. To gauge potential outcomes, research surgeons’ qualifications, read patient reviews, and view before-and-after photos.
Moreover, candidates should have realistic expectations and clear communication with their surgeon about the goals and limitations of liposuction. In doing so, individuals can achieve improved body contours with long-lasting results. In this blog we’ll provide a definitive guide to understanding liposuction surgery.
Understanding liposuction surgery
It’s important to have a firm understanding of liposuction and what it entails. This helps you to make an informed decision about the procedure.
What is liposuction?
Liposuction, colloquially known as ‘lipo’, is a cosmetic surgery that removes excess fat from specific body areas. It is particularly effective for areas where fat tends to accumulate, such as the abdomen, thighs, and arms, and is not typically regarded as a method of weight loss treatment.
Types of liposuction techniques
There are several liposuction procedures utilised in Perth, each suited to different needs and outcomes:
- Traditional liposuction: involves making small incisions through which a tube, or cannula, is inserted to vacuum fat cells out.
- Vaser liposuction: employs ultrasound technology to liquefy fat before removal, which can be less traumatic to the surrounding tissues.
- Liposculpture: focuses on more detailed contouring by removing and sometimes transferring fat to desired areas.
- Skin tightening: post-liposuction treatments can also involve techniques to tighten the skin and improve the overall appearance.
Liposuction vs other cosmetic procedures
Liposuction, an invasive procedure, carries risks. It offers more immediate and significant changes than non-invasive techniques, such as cool sculpting, ultrasound radiofrequency and lipolysis. These techniques might be subtler and used for volume enhancement rather than reduction.
The liposuction procedure
These surgical procedures are a well-established technique for reshaping and contouring specific body areas. Here, we’ll outline the key stages, from initial consultation to post-operative care.
Consultation and preparation
A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon is the first step toward liposuction. During this phase, the patient discusses their cosmetic goals while the surgeon evaluates their health and determines the most suitable approach for the procedure.
Preparation also includes discussing the risks and ensuring the patient has realistic expectations. Patients may be required to undergo certain medical tests or adjust medications before surgery.
The surgical process
On the day of surgery, the patient is usually admitted to a hospital or clinic where the liposuction will take place. The surgeon administers an anaesthetic, possibly general or twilight sedation, to ensure comfort throughout the process.
A small incision is made, and the surgeon inserts a cannula tube to break up and suction out fat from the targeted areas. The duration of this surgical procedure varies depending on the number of areas treated but typically lasts one to two hours.
Post-operative care and recovery
After liposuction, recovery starts with a brief rest period in the hospital. Full recovery can vary between patients, but it is important to follow the surgeon’s instructions carefully—including prescribed rest, medication, and guidelines for gradually returning to normal activities.
The healing process is crucial for achieving the best possible aesthetic result from the liposuction procedure.
Potential risks and complications
Undergoing liposuction in Perth or anywhere else carries several potential risks and complications that patients must be aware of. Although typically safe when performed by a qualified surgeon, it can have adverse outcomes.
Infection
Although rare, there is always a risk of infection following surgery. This can manifest with symptoms of redness, swelling, and fever.
Bleeding
Some bleeding is expected during and after liposuction, but significant bleeding may lead to complications.
Numbness
Temporary loss of sensation in the area treated is common, but persistent numbness could occur. This could be accompanied by nerve irritation.
Scars
Incisions made for liposuction may leave behind scars, although they are typically small and strategically placed to minimise visibility.
More serious complications, although infrequent, include:
- Blood Vessels Damage: Trauma to blood vessels may occur during the procedure, leading to internal bleeding.
- Blood Clot and Emboli: Blood clots can form and pose the risk of becoming embolic.
- Fat Embolism: Fat may enter the bloodstream and lodge within blood vessels, impairing circulation.
It’s crucial to seek information from a specialist plastic surgeon to ensure safety and reduce the likelihood of adverse outcomes.
Asymmetry
After liposuction, some people may notice asymmetry around their abdomen. This can take the appearance of ‘baggy’ or uneven skin. Often, this is due to swelling that occurs after the procedure and may last for several months. Seeking an evaluation after the liposuction may help to address the issue.
Who is a good candidate for liposuction surgery?
Identifying suitable candidates for liposuction goes beyond aesthetic desires; it encompasses a comprehensive consideration of an individual’s health, medical history, and realistic expectations.
The procedure is most effective for people seeking to eliminate stubborn fat that persists despite a dedicated approach to diet and exercise.
Assessing your health and medical history
Individuals considering liposuction in Perth should be within 30% of their ideal weight and possess firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone. Their overall health must be evaluated to ensure minimal risk during and after the procedure. This involves reviewing their medical history for conditions that may complicate the surgery or its recovery.
For example, a life-threatening illness or other medical conditions might impair healing and, therefore, would disqualify someone as an ideal candidate.
Understanding body contouring goals
Prospective liposuction patients must have clear and achievable goals for body contouring. This means aspiring for improvement rather than perfection.
Those who expect a complete transformation may need to adjust their expectations, as liposuction targets specific areas of stubborn fat rather than providing a solution for obesity or weight loss in general.
The overall aim is to achieve definition and contour by removing fat cells in targeted areas, which is why liposuction is often part of a larger commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including diet and exercise. Liposuction does not create permanent fat loss in patients who undergo the procedure.
Costs and considerations for liposuction
Before you have a liposuction procedure, it’s important to be aware of the costs involved. This can help you plan appropriately and budget effectively.
Financial planning for your procedure
The total cost of liposuction can vary widely depending on the areas being treated and the extent of fat removal required. In Perth, prices may start from approximately $X for one area, with additional areas incurring extra charges. A detailed quote should be obtained during the consultation, outlining the surgeon’s fee, anaesthetist’s fee, and any hospital or surgical facility costs.
- Deposit: Clinics may require a deposit to secure a surgery date. This amount will be part of the total cost.
- Payment: Full payment is typically required before the procedure. Some clinics offer payment plans to help manage the financial load.
- Nursing and Hospital Stay: Should a hospital stay be necessary, there will be additional charges for nursing care and the hospital room.
Insurance and financing options
Health insurance
Many private health insurance policies in Australia may not cover the costs of elective cosmetic procedures like liposuction unless it’s deemed medically necessary. Patients should check their policy details and discuss with their insurance provider to ascertain eligibility.
Medicare
Since liposuction is usually classified as a cosmetic procedure rather than a medical necessity, it is broadly not covered by Medicare. However, there may be exceptional cases where a rebate is available, subject to certain criteria.
Financing options
For those without insurance coverage, financing options such as payment plans through the clinic may be available. Reviewing these options thoroughly to understand the terms and interest rates applied is important.
Contact West Coast Plastic Surgery for more liposuction surgery information
If you need a liposuction procedure in Perth, rely on West Coast Plastic Surgery. Get in touch and speak to one of our friendly team members who can happily assist with your enquiry. Contact us today.